Ultimate Direction Wink

The Wink has been around for a while. Recently Ultimate Direction updated this pack. With 4 Pockets up front, 2 are multi-use stretch and 2 are secure zippered pockets. Capacity is 7.4L and it comes with a true sized 2L reservoir. The reservoir is stored in a secure pouch, separating it from the remaining storage area. There is a height-adjustable top sternum strap and women-specific shoulder harness and torso dimensions. The Cool Wick Air Mesh material creates comfort and the seamless back panel prevents abrasion. Weight is 444g and includes a rear stretch mesh pocket and bungee cord.

This pack is designed for the longer self-supported day on the trails or a mountain race with mandatory gear requirements. With the pack fully loaded it can sit lower. When not fully loaded it has more bounce with movement. The reservoir is secured using Velcro. It’s held up well for a while, but I can’t help wonder over time, will sand, dirt or sunscreen covered hands wear down it’s abilities to stick.

The hose is secured using one of two loop options. There is one loop above the top sternum strap that is lined with sticky rubber that you can tuck the hose under. The other option is a small loop above the mesh pocket. I found both worked really well and I loved the simplicity of it. I find clips or magnets on a pack for the hose can be more cumbersome.

It would be nice to have the bottom torso strap be adjustable like the top sternum strap. This might reduce the bounce and movement when the pack isn’t fully loaded.

Well priced but not easy to find in Canada, while some UD products can be found at MEC it seems some UD products have to be purchased on-line elsewhere and shipped in which ups your total cost for this pack. Not too keen on the yellow and greenish blue colour combination, in comparison to the awesome new colours in the Jenny’s collection.